He also returned to more traditional Conservative foreign policy themes than those articulated by David Cameron, who recently disassociated himself from US foreign policy in a speech in Pakistan.

Mr Fox was at pains to stress the importance of good relations with America, and distanced himself from the EU.

"In this dangerous world we have to choose our alliances carefully," he said.

"And for the United Kingdom that means that NATO not the EU must be the cornerstone of our defence."

He continued: "It is increasingly common for those on the European left to sneer at the United States with contempt and derision. Yet the 'special relationship' remains this country's most important strategic alliance. "

Mr Fox also called for a better deal for those who serve in Britain's armed forces, including better accommodation, improved healthcare and education and help onto the housing ladder.

Today is the first day of the Conservative conference in Birmingham, with talk concentrating on the state of the British economy.